What is the recommended treatment for gonococcal arthritis?

The recommended treatment for gonococcal arthritis is ceftriaxone combined with azithromycin. Gonococcal arthritis, caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a serious and potentially debilitating infection that requires effective antibiotic therapy to achieve a good outcome.

Ceftriaxone, a broad-spectrum cephalosporin, is effective against Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is typically administered in high doses to ensure adequate penetration and efficacy in treating infections within the joints and surrounding tissues. The addition of azithromycin is important because it helps to cover potential co-infections with Chlamydia trachomatis and enhances the treatment's effectiveness by providing a dual approach against possible mixed infections.

This combination therapy aligns with the current guidelines for the treatment of gonococcal infections and helps avoid complications associated with untreated or inadequately treated cases, such as osteoarthritis or septic arthritis.

Alternatives like ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, or the combination of ampicillin with gentamicin do not provide the same level of efficacy against gonococcal infections, particularly due to concerns about resistance or inadequate coverage of the bacteria involved. Hence, ceftriaxone plus azithromycin remains the gold standard in managing